18th Century Italian Articulated Santos Figure (Female Saint)

18th Century Italian Articulated Santos Figure (Female Saint)

An exceptional and rare mid-18th-century Italian Santos figure, standing at an impressive 78 cm. Carved from wood and finished in traditional gesso and polychrome, this female saint possesses a startlingly lifelike presence, further enhanced by her original inset glass eyes.

Designed as a "vested" figure, she features articulated arms at the shoulders, allowing her to be posed for liturgical processions or dressed in ceremonial silks. She stands upon her original octagonal base, which retains ghosts of its 18th-century gilding. This is not merely an antique, but a profound piece of European devotional history, embodying the theatricality and spiritual intensity of the Southern Italian Baroque.

Date: Circa 1750
Origin: Italy
Medium: Carved wood, polychrome, gesso, glass eyes
Features: Articulated arms, original base

Condition Report

This mid-18th century Italian female Santos figure is in very good antique condition, showing age-appropriate wear consistent with its age and devotional use.

The carved wood body is stable and intact. No major structural damage or repairs observed. Original polychrome and gesso finish is largely preserved with areas of minor paint loss, small chips, and light craquelure typical of 18th-century devotional figures. The finely painted facial features remain clear and expressive. Glass eyes are original and securely set. Articulated arms move properly at the shoulders. Some minor wear and scuffing to joint areas. The original octagonal base is present with wear to the painted and gilded surface. Structurally sound.

Measurement

Height:      78 cm  /     30.7 inch

Width:       28 cm  /     11.0 inch

Depth:       21 cm  /     8.3 inch

Weight:     3.3 kg  /    7.3 Ilbs